Southeast Sicily
April 18 - 24 The stunning majesty of Syracuse and Ortygia Island followed by the amazing Ragusa Ibla are on our agenda this week.
The gourmet food and local wine were exquisite in Southeast Sicily. Nero d’Avola wine reigns and can be purchased for 10 Euro for a liter should you be so inclined…we were. We made certain to drink the local wine that was from the lands confiscated (liberated) from the Mafia in Corleone. Very tasty.
This is a meat salad. One of the healthiest options that Stacy ate this week. We also tried granite made from local almonds (Mandorla) and enjoyed more than our share of gelato.
We walked 46 miles this week. Less than last week, but given the elevation changes, we felt good about our physical fitness. Our exploration of the baroque art and architecture in Syracuse, Noto and Ragusa left us exhilarated and thirsty. We learned that we prefer trattoria (family restaurants) where we can get to know the local people.
My favorite town in Sicily thus far is Ragusa Ibla. For tv fans, it is the location for the filming of Inspector Montalban, which we have never seen. We had the pleasure of seeing amazing historic baroque churches. Many rebuilt after total destruction from earthquakes in the 1700s. We celebrated San (St.) Giorgio’s (George) feast day (Duomo to his name pictured above). This celebration day involved partying late into the night, church bells ringing throughout the day and (bomba). We were evacuated from a park because of bomba, which worried us at first, but later we learned meant pyrotechnics that happened throughout the day to celebrate the feast day. So much fun.
The churches we visited were magnificent. The cupola painted by famous artist and the historic churches are lovingly preserved. Ragusa alone is home to 18 UNESCO sites, most of which we visited.
In Ragusa, I was able to pose alongside two of my most beloved role models. Terry inserted me into the center of the saints so that I might be reminded to keep striving for more saintly qualities. Tee Hee!
Our room in Syracuse was stunning with a private balcony and hot tub. This sunrise on our second morning, reminded us of our many blessings.
On Easter Monday we visited the Nectropoli di Pantalica with origins dating back to the 8th to 13th century BCE with more than 5000 tombs. Visiting sites like this gives true perspective on the mastery of early civilizations.
